Writing the Beginning of a Screenplay
Scriptwriting Hints & Tips on How to Write the First Act to a Film
Apr 2, 2009
Writing a movie script entails a rigorous self-critique, but this especially applies to the opening ten pages of the screenplay. Before submitting a screenplay, it is useful to remember that, rightly or wrongly, first impressions stick, and if the reader feels the first ten pages of a screenplay is predictable or slow, the rest of the screenplay is likely to be too.
Screenplay Critique to Save the Script from the Rejection Pile
It is useful to imagine the reader in the production department as a tired and underpaid soul on a Friday afternoon with a huge pile of scripts to get through. They are looking for any excuse to reject the script, whether it contains a misspelling, or a hackneyed scenario. If this were real, one can easily imagine why so many scripts get rejected.
Screenwriting Formatting Software
The following would be worth bearing in mind:
- Do not send a screenplay that is shabby or falling apart.
- Ensure the screenplay is written in an approved script format. BBC Writersroom contains examples of screenplays for film and drama. ScriptSmart Gold is a downloadable software that will format the screenplay for film, drama, sitcoms and for radio.
- Enclose contact details and SAE if return is required.
The First Act of a Screenplay
Screenplays are divided into three acts. The first is the set up, the second is the build up and the third is the climax. Setbacks and problems, each bigger than the last, form the model screenplay. The first act is the one that the reader is likely to be presented with when reading the first ten pages.
The First Ten Pages
The beginning of a screenplay should always throw the reader into the middle of a situation. A screenplay is not a novel, it does not allow for background detail or the inner thoughts of the protagonists. Try chopping the first scene in half. Begin the screenplay at this point. This will tighten the beginning.
The Hook
The hook draws the reader into the story. This might be in the form of a confrontation, or a shocking discovery. This might also a scenario that hurls an ordinary person into extraordinary circumstances. This hook must present itself by page five.
What the Reader is Looking for at the Beginning of a Script
If the screenplay contains originality, evidence of this must be shown by page ten. The theme of the screenplay must be apparent by this time. This might be an underlying message, such as “what is inside is more important than what you weigh”, or “love is more important than money”.
What the Screenplay Must Inform by Page Ten
- The hero of the story.
- The main protagonists.
- What the story is about
- The dramatic setback for the hero.
- The Genre.
The Ideal Opening Scene of a Screenplay
The first ten pages must provide the hook and introduce the main characters and the gist of the story. Originality must be apparent, as well the theme. Most importantly, the story must make the reader want to keep turning the pages.
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